Industrial and architectural projects with water resistant coating

Water resistance is a characteristic expected of many consumer goods, from shoes and fabrics to electronics and displays. It is also required from industrial machinery and architectural structures. A water resistant coating is the most common solution for creating or improving water resistance in industrial and architectural projects. Water resistant coatings form a barrier between the substrate and its environment; depending on the water resistant treatment, the barrier can be impermeable to water in all of its states.

In this article you will find the different types of water resistant coating systems available in Australia, see the options for different industrial and architectural applications of waterproof paint, and learn about the most common issues regarding water resistant treatment of surfaces.

Water resistant coatings and the level of protection

Though the terms ‘water resistant’, ‘water repellent’ and ‘waterproof’ are often used as synonyms, they actually describe different degrees of water resistance. Water resistant coatings can be classified by the the level of protection from water as follows:

The name ‘water resistant coating’ can also refer to water repellent or waterproof paint products.

Water resistant: Usually the lowest degree of water resistance. Able to resist water penetration to a certain extent, but not entirely – in most cases a ‘water resistant’ product cannot be completely submerged without problems. ‘Water resistant’ is also the general term for water protective coatings.

Water repellent: Higher resistance than ‘water resistant’, yet also not completely impermeable to water. Often refers to nanotechnology-based or fluoropolymer coatings which literally repel water.

Waterproof: An almost 100% watertight solution, water can not penetrate waterproof paint systems.

Despite the difference between waterproof and water resistant, consumer products may still be called waterproof when they are only resistant, and vice versa.But these are descriptions that can apply to more than just coating. When choosing a coating, you should always check the manufacturer’s data sheets and instructions.

Pick the water resistant coating that best suits your project

Waterproof paint products are as various as waterproofing projects. However, not every water resistant coating suits all situations; like with all coating projects, you need to consider the intended substrate, use, and environment of the coating, as well as that the required degree of water resistance. For example, a water resistant coating for fabric needs to be invisible, electronics require thin films, and steel requires an impermeable barrier to protect from corrosion. On the other hand, a waterproof paint never is 100% watertight, due to the fact that it needs to remain breathable. Here are four of the most common water resistant coating solutions:

SURFACE COATINGS: Corrosion resistance, limited water resistance.
The treatment of a metal surface with another metal in processes like galvanisation and anodisation is seen as an effective corrosion protection method in certain environments. These processes also provide water resistance, to a certain extent, by covering the original metal substrate. However, this is often not sufficient, so to conform to tougher waterproofing requirements it is topped with a resin or fluoropolymer coating.Uses: Steel structures and products, in tougher environments as pretreatment with a further topcoat.

FLUOROPOLYMERS:Insulating, impermeable to gases and water, resistant to chemicals, UV radiation, contamination and chalking as well as anti corrosionFluoropolymer coatings are known for their low coefficient of friction and use as lubricants. The most common of these are FEP and PTFE coatings such as Xylan and Teflon which are almost impermeable to water. Fluoropolymers are also the most common type of Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coatings which are applied to fabrics as waterproof yet breathable coatings.Uses: Consumer goods, industrial machinery, automotive parts, insulation of wiring, fabrics.

RESIN COATINGS:durable, impact and abrasion resistant, watertight, chemical resistant and many more beneficial properties depending on the type of resin coatingTwo component resin coatings such as polyurethanes and epoxies belong to the most durable water resistant coatings group. Such a coating is almost always a good idea, and there are many different types which can be further modified to meet specific requirements.Uses: Pools, vertical and horizontal architectural structures (from bathrooms to offshore wind turbines), cargo and storage water tank lining, machinery and automotive parts.

NANOTECHNOLOGY:thin, transparent, water repellent but lacks abrasion resistanceThe most innovative water resistant coatings are based on nanotechnology, and do not just coat a substrate but actually bond with it, forming a layer that is no longer separate. The use of these coatings, especially in waterproofing industrial structures, is increasing and the technology keeps developing. Nanotechnology coatings also exist as water resistant spray treatments that are available for consumers to apply at home.Uses: Touchscreens and displays, small surfaces at home (e.g. windows and shower cubicles), protecting wooden floors from water.

If you are looking for more information on water resistant coating for a specific application or a contractor in Australia, do not hesitate to contact us. Our coating experts are happy to answer any questions you may have. Together with our partners we can also draw up a tailored quote for your project, application, or product. Get in touch via e-mail or through the “Request a quote” button below and let us connect you with the coating solution for your project.

The 3 confusing issues related to water resistant paint

No matter which water resistant treatment you choose, you should keep the following in mind:

Standards: Water resistant coating for electronics, fabrics and other consumer goods is not regulated by any international or national standards. Water resistance is not required and usually not measured. However, the water resistance of electronics is measured by IP rating (Ingress Protection).

Product names: The product names may be misleading – make sure you read the fine print and check whether waterproof and water resistant mean what they say.

Application and warranty: When it comes to architectural water resistant coatings, rely on a professional, certified contractor whose work quality is guaranteed by a warranty and certification. Water resistant masonry paint, for example, is usually given a 7 year guarantee when applied correctly.

Waterproof paint and other water resistant coating contractors in Australia

Waterproofing is a job suitable for non-professionals; though on a bigger scale and especially when certification is required, it is wise to turn to an expert. For example Australian Waterproofing Institute specialises in training waterproofers. You can find some of the certified contractors in the table below.

Water resistant coating contractor

Area served

Specialisation

Buss Group

Western Australia

Water resistant coatings for balconies, waterproofing concrete and joint sealing

DryLok Waterproofing

Victoria (Melbourne)

Waterproofing of all types for internal and external surafaces

Townsend Building Services

Queensland

Plastering, painting and tiling

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